Trump Suggests Ukraine Should Change Leadership Amid Tensions Over Diesel Deal

<p>President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that it is "time for Ukraine to get a new president," urging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries. This statement was made in response to a U.S. deal involving Moscow.</p><p>Trump made his comments to reporters outside the White House before attending a rally in Tennessee. He accused Zelenskyy of exacerbating global fuel issues by continuing to authorize strikes on Russian refineries.</p><p>Trump remarked, "He'd better d--- well stop," emphasizing the need for Ukraine to avoid targeting Russian refineries due to potential impacts on global energy supplies. He stated, "We said, 'you can do whatever you want to Russia, don't hit the refineries', because that's a world problem that's caused."</p><p>Additionally, Trump criticized Zelenskyy for not achieving an agreement to end the conflict that began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Trump noted, "He could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does."</p><p>These remarks followed Zelenskyy's criticism of a new American agreement with Russia that would temporarily ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports. Trump confirmed that Washington had reached an agreement with Moscow to suspend restrictions on Russian diesel exports until April 7.</p><p>This agreement would enable Russia to release millions of tons of diesel into U.S. and global markets, potentially increasing fuel supplies amid rising prices at the pump. However, Zelenskyy warned that the deal could provide Russia with additional funds to procure weapons and continue its military actions against Ukraine.</p><p>The ongoing dispute occurs as both Russia and Ukraine have intensified strikes on energy facilities, transportation systems, and other critical infrastructure. Trump's comments add pressure on Zelenskyy to pursue negotiations to end the war with Russia.</p>